Jarvies Family Boat In
3.1513 reviewsP.O. BOX 279, MANILA, UT 84046, USA
Jarvies Family Boat In
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
This campground operates seasonally and charges $0.00 per night during the peak season from May 15 to September 14, 2025. Displayed rates do not reflect discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Escape to a hidden gem where the only way in is across the shimmering waters of Flaming Gorge Reservoir. Jarvies Family Boat-In Campground rewards adventurous souls with an exclusive retreat surrounded by towering red cliffs and pristine wilderness. Your private sanctuary comes complete with thoughtfully placed picnic shelters, level tent pads, and campfire rings where stories flow as freely as the crackling flames. A well-maintained vault toilet and your own dock ensure comfort meets adventure in this boat-access paradise.
Jarvies Family Boat-In Campground features primitive, boat-in campsites designed for single-family use. There are no facilities for RVs, group camping, or luxury accommodations such as cabins or yurts.
Historical SignificanceJourney through time at the nearby Flaming Gorge Dam, where fascinating guided tours reveal the engineering marvel that created this recreational paradise. The visitor center brings the region's rich tapestry to life through captivating exhibits showcasing everything from ancient Native American rock art to tales of Wild West outlaws who once roamed these canyons. The legendary Green River below has carved not just spectacular geology, but centuries of human stories into these ancient rocks.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through September, this high-country haven basks in nature's perfect camping weather. Crystal-clear summer skies stretch endlessly above, while gentle breezes keep temperatures comfortable even on the warmest days. Winter transforms the landscape into a frozen wonderland, though most visitors save their adventures for the sun-soaked months when the reservoir sparkles invitingly and evening campfires chase away the alpine chill.
ElevationPerched at 6,040 feet where the air is crisp and pine-scented, this elevated escape offers a refreshing retreat from summer's heat. The altitude brings cooler nights perfect for stargazing and morning temperatures that invite you to linger over campfire coffee while watching the sunrise paint the cliffs in shades of gold and crimson.
Natural Features and SceneryNestled within a tapestry of aromatic juniper and pinyon pine, each campsite offers its own private woodland sanctuary. While the evergreen canopy provides natural privacy between sites, strategic clearings frame breathtaking glimpses of Flaming Gorge Reservoir's sapphire waters and the dramatic red rock cliffs that gave this wonderland its name. The rugged beauty of the high desert meets mountain majesty in this photographer's paradise.
Geological RegionCarved into a hillside overlooking the jewel-like Flaming Gorge Reservoir, this campground sits at the intersection of ancient geological forces and modern recreation. Massive red sandstone cliffs rise like natural cathedrals from the water's edge, their layers telling a story millions of years in the making. Dense groves of juniper and pinyon pine cling to the rocky slopes, creating a rugged yet inviting landscape where every vista reveals another postcard-perfect scene of the American West's raw beauty.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe path from the dock to the campground does not meet accessibility standards and may require assistance for some visitors.
Sites SizeEach site includes a tent pad and picnic shelter, though specific dimensions are not provided. One user noted difficulty fitting a tent at their site.
Sites PrivacyThe campground is situated among juniper and pinyon pines, providing good privacy between campsites despite limited shade.
Total Campsites8 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor campers seeking quieter experiences, avoid peak periods. Campsites further uphill may offer better privacy. Consider bringing additional supplies such as toilet paper due to high bathroom usage.
Best CampsitesUser reviews highlight campsite 6 as clean, offering good proximity to the dock and beautiful views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Begins at 2 PM.
Check-out
By 11 AM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 16 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each site accommodates single-family groups.
Groups
No group sites are available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutEight single-family sites are spread across a hillside, offering some privacy due to vegetation.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 15 to September 14 annually.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov, via their app, or their contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites are available only when reserved campsites are not booked. Walk-up availability may vary based on season and demand.
Cancellation PolicyGuests can cancel reservations at any time before their scheduled arrival with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations incur an additional penalty of forfeiting the first night's recreation use fee. Modifications to reservations can be made up to three times but may incur fees if balance changes.
Amenities available
Showers
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a variety of recreational activities closely tied to its lakeside location. Popular activities include boating, water skiing, fishing, swimming, and hiking. The proximity of activities to the campsites is a key feature.
Hiking
A hiking trail passes through the campground, but specific details about the trail's length and difficulty are not provided.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity, though no specifics about fish species or fishing conditions are given.Swimming
Swimming is accessible near the campsite, providing a convenient option for campers.Boating
The campground is accessible only by boat, and boating is a central activity. A private dock is available for campers, though user reviews mention conflicts with day users infringing on dock space.Winter Activities
No winter activities are listed, as the campground operates seasonally from mid-May to mid-September.Water Sports
Water skiing is specifically mentioned as a popular water sport.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire rings with grill attachments.
- Quiet hours are Enforced after 10 PM daily.
Hazards
General hazardsSome user reviews report issues with overcrowding and loud noise from day visitors. Vault toilets may become overused during peak periods, with several complaints about cleanliness and odor.
Weather forecast
74
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 33%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.2 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are in Manila, UT, including basic healthcare facilities and police services. Major hospitals and more comprehensive services are available in Vernal, UT, approximately 42 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15 to September 14.
Trash and recyclingThere is no trash service at the campground. Campers must carry out all waste.
Proximity to water featuresAll campsites are steps away from Flaming Gorge Reservoir, and the campground includes a private dock for campers.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints focus on the lack of toilet maintenance, with reports of overflowing vault toilets and lack of supplies such as toilet paper. Day users often encroach on the private dock reserved for campers. Noise disturbances are also commonly mentioned.
HostSeveral reviews mention friendly and accommodating camp hosts during certain seasons, but host presence may vary.
Campground Map
P.O. BOX 279, MANILA, UT 84046, USA
Driving directionsCedar Springs Marina is the closest boat ramp that you may launch from to get to Jarvies. Jarvies Canyon is the first canyon west and a little north of the marina and is only accessed by boat. From Vernal, Utah, take U.S. 191 north 42 miles. Turn north onto Forest Road 183 and travel approximately 2 miles to Cedar Springs Marina. From Manila, Utah, take Highway 44 for 28 miles. Turn left on U.S. 191 and go north for about 4 miles. Turn north onto Forest Road 183 and travel approximately 2 miles to Cedar Springs Marina. From Rock Springs, Wyoming, take I-80 west toward Green River about 6 miles to the junction with U.S. 191/Flaming Gorge Road. Take U.S. 191 south for 67 miles, passing through Dutch John. Turn north onto Forest Road 183 and travel approximately 2 miles to Cedar Springs Marina.
The campground is only accessible by boat. The nearest boat ramps are Cedar Springs and Mustang Ridge Marinas, approximately 20 minutes across the water. The path from the boat dock to the campground does not support accessibility standards; some visitors may require assistance.Nearby places
Manila, UT: approximately 28 miles away (via Highway 44)
Vernal, UT: approximately 42 miles away (via U.S. 191)
Rock Springs, WY: approximately 67 miles away (via I-80 and U.S. 191).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Manila, UT, approximately 28 miles away. Firewood and showers can be accessed at Cedar Springs or Deer Run nearby.
Camper Reviews
3.2
13 reviews
Jarvies Family Boat In has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
Mixed reviews highlight the campground's scenic beauty and unique boat-in access but raise concerns about maintenance and overuse of facilities by non-campers.
Review Summaries
Based on 13 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers praised the scenic views, peaceful setting when uncrowded, and the convenience of the dock. "Great views at a cool part of the lake" and "camp hosts were amazing" were common sentiments.
Based on 13 reviewsCommon Concerns
Recurring issues include lack of bathroom maintenance, with reports of toilets being full and unusable, and day users taking over docks and facilities. Noise levels, including loud music and lack of...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own drinking water and toilet paper due to the lack of amenities and maintenance issues. Consider visiting during less crowded times for a quieter experience.
Based on 13 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Mid-summer is particularly problematic due to high use by day visitors, leading to overuse of facilities and noise disturbances. Early or late in the operating season may offer a quieter and more...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"What used to be an awesome spot has turned to crap, literally." (Cameron B). "The area is beautiful, but the bathroom situation is awful." (Robin H). "Great location and dock facilities, but...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites 1, 5, and 8 received mixed reviews. Site 1 was noted for its cleanliness but faced dock access issues due to day users. Site 8 was repeatedly mentioned for its proximity to the overused vault...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific user reviews regarding accessibility were provided.
Based on 13 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific user reviews regarding pets were provided.
Based on 13 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025